It’s here—the weekend we’ve all been waiting for. Well, at least the weekend that I’ve been waiting for.
With Viva PHX, Art Detour 26 and myriad other events taking place this weekend, it’s sure to be one for the books.
To help you navigate your way through the merriment and festivities, here’s a list of things to do this Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Hit Up Each Stage at Viva PHX: A Downtown Music Festival – Friday starting at 7 p.m.
This Friday night music lovers and festival goers alike will witness the birth of Viva PHX, a Downtown music festival featuring over 65 bands on 13 stages all within walking distance of one another. The lineup features in- and out-of-state favorites like Black Carl, Dry River Yacht Club, The Neighborhood and—oh yeah—Sir Mix-a-Lot. The festival is proof of the success of the growing Downtown music scene. If you haven’t already, you can view the full lineup and get your tickets here.
Tour Downtown Phoenix Art Spaces at Art Detour 26 – Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Downtown art scene has had an instrumental impact on the growth of the Core and this weekend is the perfect opportunity to see why. Galleries, artists, pop-up galleries and more will open their doors this weekend for the 26th Annual Art Detour hosted by Artlink Phoenix. Their map paints the way—leading you on a self-guided tour of some of the finest art spaces in town. This free weekend long event features a circulating trolley, exhibit, hands-on kids’ activities and more.
Bust a move at the Heart and Sol Health and Wellness Festival – Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Finding a free Zumba class is almost impossible these days but not this weekend. The Heart and Sol Wellness Festival at Civic Space Park will be a full afternoon of free activities including Zumba, yoga, Pilates, a youth football camp and more—did I mention it’s free? The event is meant to teach and inspire healthy lifestyle choices.
See Phoenix’s Finest Paint Fresh Murals Around the City – Friday through Sunday, various times
While you’re making you’re way from stage to stage and gallery to gallery, make sure to check out PAINT PHX, a weekend long mural event taking place in and around Downtown. Starting Thursday, local and out-of-state artists will paint various walls in popular areas like 16th Street, Roosevelt Row and Grand Avenue. This is the first artist-organized, multi-mural event and is sure to bring new life and vibrancy to some dull walls.
Travel to the Future at Emerge: Carnival of the Future – Friday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Featuring dancing industrial robots, singing drones, aerialists, clowns and a circus tent to boot, this annual festival will inspire you to think creatively about the future. This year they’ll explore individuality in a digital world and host a gallery opening right next door at Combine Studios to showcase the creative process behind Emerge.
Start Art Detour 26 Early at First Friday – Friday starting at 6 p.m.
Kickoff the weekend with a little pre-Art Detour tour of galleries and art spaces this First Friday. Starting at 6 p.m., the show lights switch on, doors open and thousands of people are invited to experience the arts and culture of Downtown at numerous galleries, venues and outdoor spaces. Find your First Friday guide here.
Soak Up the Sun at Blues Blast – Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Blues Blast is a family-friendly festival featuring local and national Blues acts, food and drinks, and some Vitamin D. Bring a blanket or chair, or just lie down in the grass and listen. The festival will feature food by Lucille’s BBQ and drinks by Four Peaks Brewery. You can find tickets here.
Photo of Viva PHX Mural by Kelsey Wong